Cycle lanes and safety works planned for Castletroy and Ballysimon

CONSTRUCTION work should begin in the third quarter of next year on new cycle lanes and other improvements for cyclists and pedestrians around Castletroy, Annacotty and Ballysimon.

CONSTRUCTION work should begin in the third quarter of next year on new cycle lanes and other improvements for cyclists and pedestrians around Castletroy, Annacotty and Ballysimon.

Part of the €9 million package of funding allocated to Limerick Smarter Travel, the scheme has already gone through the planning process and been approved by Limerick City and County Council.

“In January, we will be going out to tender. The tendering and procurement process can take a bit of time and there can be challenges that can slow things down but construction is scheduled for the third quarter of 2015,” said Pat O’Neill, project manager, Limerick Smarter Travel.

The specific works planned are part of Limerick Smarter Travel Route 4 - improving sustainable transport options between Mulgrave Street and Newtown, Annacotty.

They will focus on two areas: the Old Tipperary Road/ Garryglass Link Road - where there will be new cycle lanes, footpaths and road widening - and around Castletroy/Newtown - where the focus will be on making junctions safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

“You are talking around the Eastway, East Point and Delta business parks. That whole area is not served well by facilities for cycling or even for walking because footpaths are missing. And that is what we are trying to bring in there,” explained Mr O’Neill.

And around Newtown and Castletroy – including around Castletroy College –the plans will focus on safety improvements at 18 junctions including two roundabouts.

“We are trying to clam the whole area down and make it suitable for pedestrians and cyclists as well as the drivers,” he said.

Local labour councillor Elena Secas said these works were not before time and the improvements would occasion “a sigh of relief” for parents around Annacotty, Monaleen and Castletroy.

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